Overview
In some scenarios, product managers will find value in interviewing the user as they undergo a usability test. These are contextual inquiries.
Contextual inquiries provide qualitative data that a product team can be used to identify gaps in user journeys and validate assumptions.
During a contextual inquiry, introduce the problem space the user is entering. Then, as the user interacts with the product, the researcher is encouraged to ask relevant questions, and the user is encouraged to clear up assumptions.
The key to successful contextual inquiries is the researcher & user working together to accurately interpret the user journey.
Contextual inquiries are most meaningful when used early in the development process.
Understand that the data is analogous, and is not a substitute for mass quantitative data.
